How This Whimsical, Laid-Back District Won Me Over
There is a unique vibe to any city you visit, a subset of cultures and people intersecting in one major populated hub. Within any city limits, are distinct regions, which might be named vaguely based on their relationship to downtown, their dominating group of inhabitants, or some other cultural landmark. Fountain Square in Indianapolis is often referred to as “The Art District” of this Midwestern city, a place quite unlike any other district in the country.
I originally hail from the East Coast, land of large, densely overpopulated cities (think Philadelphia, New York, Baltimore), magnificent in their magnitude, all with bustling crowds, and urban attitudes. But, Fountain Square, the part of Indianapolis which I now call home, has the perfect blend of historic architecture, urban vibes, and a strong sense of community pride that highlights this area from any other urban regions boasting a “small town feel”. Collectively, Fountain Square is a community of artists, lovers of art, progressive thinkers, and ambitious youth and adults, all looking to make their impact on the world.
Sure, Fountain Square is brimming with restaurants, coffee houses, clubs, venues, and more, but what sets this area apart is its dedication to the community. Grab lunch or a drink at PURE Eatery, while also scoping out new local art. Or, grab some coffee at the always bustling Calvin Fletchers (technically in Fletcher Place, but just a block or two out of FS), where all profits are donated to non-profit groups in Indy. And, if you love fresh vegetables and herbs, but don’t have a yard, plant your favorites in the community garden. If you don’t have a green thumb, swing by Wildwood, for some of the best fruits, vegetables, and unique foods around. The concept of supporting the community is so powerful in Fountain Square, that it becomes overwhelmingly familiar; giving back and helping one another is just part of this area’s charm.
There’s something for everyone in Fountain Square, if you are brave enough to let your colors show. We have swing dancing, music festivals, art shows, a library branch, duck pin bowling, fresh doughnuts, Burlesque Bingo, trivia, organic frozen yogurt, breweries, a film HQ, karaoke, and so much more. One of my personal favorite attractions is the End of the Line Rooftop Garden, open every summer for dinner and drinks. There’s something a little magical about enjoying good food with good company, while looking down on Fountain Square and the rest of the city. And don’t ever worry about fighting for parking. It’s a quick walk to the heart of Fountain Square from any home in the area, and even faster to bike in designated bike lanes, both made easier by the city’s popular, Cultural Trail. If you do decide to drive, there are dozens of free parking spaces and lots to choose from.
Tucked away on the south side of Indy, is the small gem, Fountain Square, with an artsy, charismatic vibe that the rest of the city simply can’t compete with. If you’re looking for an exciting, yet laid back area to live in, a place where everyone is passionate about something and neighbors quickly become friends, Fountain Square might be the next place you should call home.
